Introduction
Passports are essential documents for international travel. It acts as a proof of identity and citizenship issued by a country’s government. One such passport is the Chinese passport, which is issued to Chinese citizens and serves as a travel document.
In this comprehensive guide, we will take a closer look at the Chinese passport. What are its features? How to apply for one? And what are the visa-free travel destinations for Chinese passport holders? Read on to find out more.
What is a Chinese Passport?
A Chinese passport is an official document issued to Chinese citizens by the Ministry of Public Security’s Exit and Entry Administration Bureau. It serves as a travel document for international travel and proof of identity.
The Chinese passport is recognized by a vast majority of countries globally and has a visa-free travel agreement with over 100 countries, making it one of the most powerful passports globally.
The passport’s design includes the Chinese national emblem and the words “The People’s Republic of China” in both Chinese and English, along with the passport holder’s photograph and other personal information.
Types of Chinese Passports
There are three types of Chinese passports:
- Ordinary Passport
- Diplomatic Passport
- Service Passport
Ordinary Passport
The ordinary passport is the most common type of passport issued to Chinese citizens. It is issued to individuals who are 16 years and older and is valid for ten years. Children under the age of 16 are issued a passport that is valid for five years.
The ordinary passport is further divided into:
- Regular passport (blue cover) for ordinary citizens
- Public affairs passport (green cover) for officials who travel abroad for public service
- Border pass (red cover) for residents in border areas who frequently travel across the border
Diplomatic Passport
The diplomatic passport is issued to Chinese diplomats, consular officers, and their family members who are traveling on official business. It has a red cover and is valid for five years.
Service Passport
The service passport is issued to Chinese government officials, employees of state-owned enterprises and their family members who travel abroad on official business. It has a yellow cover and is valid for five years.
How to Apply for a Chinese Passport?
Chinese citizens can apply for a passport at their local Exit and Entry Administration Bureau. The application process includes:
- Filling out the application form
- Providing a recent passport photograph
- Providing valid identification documents and proof of citizenship
- Payment of fees
Once the application is submitted, it takes approximately 15 working days for the passport to be issued. The ordinary passport is valid for ten years for adults and five years for children under the age of 16.
Visa-Free Travel Destinations for Chinese Passport Holders
Chinese passport holders have visa-free access or visa on arrival to over 100 countries and territories, including:
- Singapore
- Thailand
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
- Japan
- South Korea
- Philippines
- United Arab Emirates
- Turkey
- Georgia
- Mauritius
However, some countries may require Chinese passport holders to apply for a visa before traveling. It is always advisable to check the visa requirements before making travel plans.
Conclusion
The Chinese passport is a valuable document that allows Chinese citizens to travel internationally. It is recognized by over 100 countries worldwide and has visa-free travel agreements with these countries. Chinese citizens can apply for a passport at their local Exit and Entry Administration Bureau and should check visa requirements before traveling.
